‘Urban Island’ documentary Shortlisted for the 2013 Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Film Grant
Unveiling Seoul: Urban Island Documentary by Nils Clauss
Good News! URBAN ISLAND, a documentary music video by Nils Clauss and Namhui Park, has been shortlisted among 10 finalists for the 2013 Film Grant of the Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation. The video features the song VARÚÐ by Icelandic band SIGUR RÓS. The story focuses on a homeless man in his forties. He has lived on the streets of Seoul for more than 8 years. This man has been part of a small homeless community for the past four years. Together they camp out in a little park next to the train tracks of Yongsan Station. As the man strictly refuses to receive charity, he frequents the city streets each night to make a living by collecting recyclables.
Seoul Documentary Filmmaker on Global Stage: The Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation Grant Program
In exciting news, URBAN ISLAND, a documentary by Nils Clauss, has secured a spot among the 10 finalists for the 2013 Film Grant of the Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation. Established in 2010, the foundation dedicates itself to encouraging artists challenging our perception of the world. As a Seoul-based filmmaker and cinematographer, Nils Clauss resonates with capturing societal nuances.
Vision for Change: Seoul based Documentary Filmmaker
The prestigious Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation seeks to honor outstanding documentary filmmakers annually, bringing forth impactful images that expose ignored atrocities globally. The award ceremony takes place during the summer opening reception for the Rencontres d’Arles in France. As a filmmaker based in Seoul, South Korea, Clauss’ lens captures the diverse and impactful stories woven into the fabric of this dynamic city.
Empowering Visionaries: Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Grant
Addressed to professional and emerging photographers, the Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Grant supports documentary projects addressing current societal issues. As a recipient, guidance is provided throughout the project, from conception to exhibition at the foundation. Being part of this transformative journey aligns with Clauss’ mission as a visual storyteller based in Seoul.
Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation: Global Impact
Based in New York, international photographer Manuel Rivera-Ortiz founded the foundation in 2010. Born into poverty in Puerto Rico, Rivera-Ortiz’s work reflects a social realist perspective, capturing the hardships of everyday life. As a filmmaker based in Seoul, Clauss’ lens is a bridge connecting diverse narratives, bringing attention to stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
A Glimpse into Rivera-Ortiz’s Journey
Rivera-Ortiz’s journey from a corrugated tin shack to international acclaim is a testament to his resilience. As a filmmaker and photographer, I draw inspiration from his commitment to social documentary as a form of activism. His work showcasing the dignity of marginalized communities resonates with Clauss’ own endeavors.
Seoul: A Hub of Cinematic Exploration
In conclusion, the shortlisting of URBAN ISLAND for the Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Film Grant highlights Seoul’s significance as a hub for cinematic exploration. Explore Seoul’s societal nuances through “Urban Island,” a documentary that sheds light on overlooked aspects of humanity.
